Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced the felony conviction of David Robert Daleiden and Sandra Merritt for criminal invasion of privacy. The charges stem from their unlawful recording of confidential communications with women's healthcare providers. This legal action follows a 2017 arrest warrant issued by the California Department of Justice against both individuals.

The defendants entered no contest pleas and were found guilty under California Penal Code Section 632(a), which prohibits the unauthorized recording of private conversations. "While the Trump Administration is issuing pardons to individuals convicted of harming reproductive health clinics and providers, my office is securing criminal convictions to ensure that Californians can exercise their constitutional rights to reproductive healthcare," stated Attorney General Bonta. He emphasized that his office would continue to act against any threats to abortion care access.

The plea agreement stipulates several conditions for Daleiden and Merritt. They are required to avoid contact with or naming the victims in any form, including public spaces, social media, or at work locations. Additionally, they must comply with all laws, particularly refraining from further recordings that breach Penal Code Section 632.